Cricket History Trivia Questions and Answers

Cricket's story stretches back centuries, and these history questions trace the highlights: where the game began, the first Test match in 1877, the Ashes, the Bodyline series and the first World Cup. Each answer includes a short explanation and often a fun fact, so you'll come away knowing the story behind the scorecard.

5 questions · Every answer explained · Fact-checked October 2026

1. 1. In which country did the sport of cricket originate?

   • A. Australia
   • B. India
   • C. England
   • D. South Africa
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   C. England — Cricket's origins trace back to England, with the modern game codified there.

2. 2. In which year was the first Cricket World Cup held?

   • A. 1971
   • B. 1975
   • C. 1979
   • D. 1983
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   B. 1975 — The inaugural Cricket World Cup was held in England in 1975, won by the West Indies.

3. 3. Which two nations contest the Ashes?

   • A. England and Australia
   • B. India and Pakistan
   • C. Australia and New Zealand
   • D. England and South Africa
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   A. England and Australia — The Ashes is the Test series between England and Australia, first contested in 1882–83.

   Did you know? The name comes from a mock obituary for English cricket printed after Australia's 1882 win at The Oval.

4. 4. Which England captain devised the 'Bodyline' tactics of the 1932–33 Ashes?

   • A. Douglas Jardine
   • B. Harold Larwood
   • C. Len Hutton
   • D. W. G. Grace
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   A. Douglas Jardine — Douglas Jardine had his fast bowlers aim at the batter's body to counter Don Bradman.

   Did you know? Harold Larwood, Bodyline's chief bowler, later emigrated to Australia.

5. 5. Which side won the first-ever Test match, played in Melbourne in 1877?

   • A. England
   • B. Australia
   • C. South Africa
   • D. West Indies
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   B. Australia — Australia beat England by 45 runs at the Melbourne Cricket Ground.

   Did you know? In the 1977 Centenary Test, Australia won by exactly 45 runs again.